Gap’s Post

For The Walrus I wrote about why Roots' tapped the edgy fashion designer Joey Gollish as the brand's first-ever creative director-in-residence, and whether that decision makes sense for the legacy brand. Trying to make a mass brand cool is always a risky strategy, but Roots needs to commit one way or the other to find out if this is a risk worth taking. The global domination and polarization of the fashion industry—between fast fashion and luxury— reveals larger cultural and economic fissures: a shrinking middle class and an imperative to always express our individuality primarily through clothing. What place do mall brands—or normal clothes, for that matter—have anymore? If you go to a mall, you see mostly Fashion, not clothes.

There is a tension happening in fashion at the moment. As New York Fashion Week experiences 90+ degree weather, the urgency for climate change and circular fashion is palpable. However, with the cost of living continuing to rise (I recently laughed at an email for $12 happy hour cocktails) and the looming deadline for student loan payments, I can't ignore the economic trends affecting consumers. But, is the answer luxury brands collaborating with fast fashion? Both launched at New York Fashion Week, Barneys New York released a 32-piece capsule with the fast-fashion retailer Forever 21, and supermodel Naomi Campbell debuted her 70-piece collection with the fast-fashion retailer PrettyLittleThing.com (PLT). Both Barneys New York and Forever 21 are owned by licensing firm Authentic Brands Group, who, according to The Business of Fashion, owns IP for over 40 brands and have done similar collaborations between brands in their portfolio, like Juicy Couture x Forever 21. Foreseeing the controversy, Campbell shared with Vogue and WWD that she was impressed by PLT's global reach, including 18m Instagram followers. She wanted to use the partnership as a platform for emerging talent because Campbell created the collection with Black designers Edvin Thompson of Theophilio and Victor Anate of #Vicnate. Optics are important in fashion, but so is reality. The reality of fashion’s contribution to the climate crisis and the reality of slowed consumer spending. It is something to consider as we enter fashion month, where buyers, media, and celebrities will choose next season’s trends and products. I don't have the answer (yet), but my friend, Ronnette H., sums it up perfectly, “I need faux leather pants that are in an educator’s budget, even if I really want [luxury brand] Nanushka ones.” What do you think? Is there a solution? https://lnkd.in/emddGC-t . . . . . #nyfw #newyorkfashionweek #fastfashion #climatechange #circularfashion #naomicampbell #barneysnewyork #fashion #blackdesigners

UNIQLO has an exceptional talent for fostering extensive, ongoing designer collaborations that become a part of your long-term wardrobe. The just-launched C by Clare Waight Keller looks to be the latest chapter in that strategically intelligent book; it's great. In my personal experience, the collaboration products - J by JIL SANDER , JW Anderson, and U by LEMAIRE- make a product that lasts in quality and style. They invest in fabrication, make, AND original design - in the lane of more direct fashion (I am reluctant to call them fast because they exist in a vastly different universe from Cider SHEIN Forever 21 boohoo). Engaging these collaborations in moderation is a choice I don't feel dirty about making because I wear the heck out of the product, meeting and surpassing the idea that it is in any way a temporary part of my wardrobe. The truth is that almost always I have to wear these garments out for them to be banished to their next chapter. These collaboration programs are far from perfect but are also lightyears away from the ruination of other fast fashion if you purchase with intention and are conscious of how you will wear and then share the garment onward. Yes, this product has a resale market, so it can land in someone else's closet rather than a landfill. Resale viability is a positive side effect of their investment in original design versus knocking off others' ideas, quality, brand integrity, and often natural fiber raw materials - I work to avoid the petroleum-based portions of these programs. #uniqlo #shien #forever21 #consciousliving #consciousfashion #sustainablefashion #sustainability #sustainabledesign

Have you ever wondered why it's so challenging to find that perfect fit from high street stores? High street sizes are often a "one-size-fits-few" approach that leaves many of us feeling frustrated, uncomfortable and like our body is the problem. But here's the good news: You don't have to settle for ill-fitting clothing any longer. I specialise in creating custom-made women's suits that are designed to fit YOU, not a generic size chart. 🌟 The Reality of High Street Sizes 🌟 High street sizes, though convenient for mass production, often overlook the beautiful diversity of the female body. No two women are exactly alike, and it's unfair to expect us all to conform to standard sizing that may not work for our unique shapes. It is an issue that reaches every woman who has ever faced the frustration of shopping for clothes. For too long, we've allowed ourselves to be defined by a number on a tag, one that has little relevance to the unique curves and contours that make each of us beautifully distinct. When we walk into a store, we are often bombarded with racks of clothing neatly labeled with sizes that seem to have their own secret code, leaving us to decipher whether we are a 6, an 8, a 10 or even all of them at once. Our bodies are not one-size-fits-all; they are intricate, they are unique, and they deserve to be celebrated as such. It's time we move away from numbers and embrace the idea that clothes should be made to fit our bodies, not the other way around. Shift the narrative from squeezing into a predetermined size to adorning ourselves in clothing crafted to complement the very contours that make us who we are. Wardrobes filled with garments that accentuate your strengths, flatter your figure, and make you feel confident and empowered every time you put them on. The fashion industry has long perpetuated an unrealistic standard of beauty, where the ideal size is often portrayed as a singular, unattainable goal. But the reality is that beauty is found in our diversity and authenticity. Message me to find out more about having your own custom made clothing. #womensfashion #tailoring #luxuryfashion

#engineeredgarments Spring 2024. #men #women #mencollection #womencollection #menfashion #womenfashion #fashion #menstyle #womenstyle #outfit #menoutfits #womenoutfits #style #wardrope #trend #fashiontrend #fashionshow #catwalk #runway #workit #inspirational Prior to hip hop’s embrace of Tommy Hilfiger, before the jock style craze of the Marky Mark years at Calvin Klein, and preceding the boom of the all-American boy-next-door image of the Abercrombie rebrand, there was the Northeastern prep of Brooks Brothers and Ralph Lauren. Preppy Ivy League style has inspired countless designers over the decades, and taken many forms. Up next in the long history of collegiate prep reimaginations is Daiki Suzuki of Engineered Garments. “The roots of my clothing style are deeply influenced by the Ivy League style of 1960s America,” said Suzuki of his spring 2024 menswear collection. The designer explained that his youthful attraction to Ivy prep eventually transformed into an embrace of the Heavy Duty Ivy style that emerged in Japan in the ’70s—which merged Ivy elements with outdoor gear. Much of this has been folded into the sartorial language of Engineered Garments over the years, but never as evidently as in this collection. Chalk that up to Suzuki rediscovering Charles Hix’s 1977 book Dressing Right, in which the former GQ and Playboy columnist broke down prep style and offered advice to men on building a wardrobe with pieces that suit their body types, while explaining the differences between collar sizes, lapel cuts, and the like. The tome followed Hix’s best-selling book Looking Good: A Guide For Men, which advised men on grooming and perfecting their appearance through a set of…let’s call them steamy images by Bruce Weber. In hindsight, this quiet men’s style revolution in the ’80s gave way to the sartorial overhaul that arrived later in the ’90s—the more you know! Dressing Right also broke down styling techniques by designers, Lauren included, and explained the nuances of dressing up and down for men. “It shattered my preconceptions and revealed to me new ways of wearing clothes,” wrote Suzuki.

Welcome to Beflexy: Where Style Meets Comfort At Beflexy, we pride ourselves on being more than just a clothing brand – we're a lifestyle. Our mission is to empower individuals to express their unique style while enjoying the utmost comfort. With a commitment to quality, versatility, and inclusivity, we've curated a collection that caters to both men and women, embracing diversity in fashion. Key Features that Set Beflexy Apart: Comfort-First Philosophy: We believe that style should never compromise comfort. Our fabrics are carefully selected to ensure a soft touch against the skin, allowing you to move effortlessly while looking effortlessly chic. Versatility for Every Occasion: Whether you're heading to the office, going out for a casual weekend, or dressing up for a special event, Beflexy has you covered. Our versatile designs seamlessly transition from day to night, offering wardrobe essentials that adapt to your lifestyle. Inclusive Sizing: At Beflexy, we celebrate diversity by offering a wide range of sizes for both men and women. We believe that everyone deserves access to fashion that makes them feel confident, regardless of body shape or size. Timeless Style with a Modern Twist: Our designs are inspired by classic aesthetics, reimagined with a modern flair. Beflexy pieces are not just fleeting trends – they are timeless investments in your personal style that will withstand the test of time. Sustainable Practices: We are committed to minimizing our environmental footprint. Beflexy embraces sustainable practices, from sourcing eco-friendly materials to ethical manufacturing processes, ensuring that you can feel good about the clothes you wear. Community Engagement: Beflexy is more than a brand; it's a community. We engage with our customers through social media, events, and collaborations. Your feedback and ideas inspire us to continually evolve and create fashion that resonates with our diverse and dynamic community. Join us at Beflexy and experience fashion that goes beyond trends, offering a blend of style, comfort, and inclusivity. Discover your unique expression with Beflexy – because confidence never goes out of style. #dropshouldertshirt #homies #unisexfashion #PremiumQuality #homiesbd #clothingbrand #beflexy

Amazing article on the amazing Katie O’Riordan!

Sibling relationships can be fraught with challenges, particularly if you go into business together. For many of us, that would introduce a whole new array of stresses and difficulties. But in the case of Melbourne sisters Tilly and Lucy Comb, it’s been “a bonus that they can undertake this journey together”. United by their mutual love of streetwear and vintage fashion, the sisters combined their fashion industry knowledge – spanning design, business development and marketing..... READ ALONG BELOW https://lnkd.in/gjWZRhyP

Hey fashionistas and style mavens! Have you heard about Pozse yet? 🛍️👗✨ Imagine a place where your passion for fashion meets endless possibilities! Pozse isn't just another social media platform—it's your go-to destination for all things style, glam, and commerce. Whether you're a trendsetter looking to showcase your latest outfits or a fashion brand ready to connect with a global audience, Pozse has something special for you. Here’s why Pozse is set to revolutionize the fashion landscape: Community of Fashion Aficionados: Join a vibrant community of fashion lovers just like you! Share your OOTDs (Outfit of the Day), fashion tips, and style hacks with people who truly appreciate your unique sense of style . E-commerce Marketplace: Discover and shop from a curated selection of fashion brands—all in one place. From haute couture to everyday essentials, Pozse brings you closer to the brands you love and the ones you're about to discover. Style Inspiration Galore: Need a dose of inspiration? Dive into Pozse's feed filled with the latest trends, fashion editorials, and street style snaps. Find your next fashion obsession or spark your creativity with stunning visuals and innovative designs. Connect and Collaborate: Whether you're a fashion influencer, a designer, or a boutique owner, Pozse provides the perfect platform to connect, collaborate, and grow your influence within the fashion community. Build meaningful partnerships and expand your reach like never before . Empowerment through Fashion: Fashion is more than just clothing—it's a form of self-expression and empowerment. Pozse celebrates diversity, individuality, and creativity, making it a place where everyone can feel confident and inspired to express themselves through their personal style. So, what are you waiting for? Join Pozse or www.pozse.com today and be part of a dynamic community where fashion meets passion, style meets commerce, and creativity knows no bounds. Whether you're here to share, shop, or simply soak in the fashion-forward vibes, Pozse welcomes you with open arms. Let's redefine fashion together—because at Pozse, every outfit tells a story. 💫👠💼 #Pozse #FashionCommunity #StyleInspiration #ShopFashion #EmpowerThroughFashion

Raymond Croft is live on our blog! He is the Senior Creative Director at Tommy Hilfiger and first generation in the US. His mother immigrated from South America and his father immigrated from the West Indies to the US. He values when people dress for their body type as he feels fashion is defined more by silhouettes rather than trends. Read more about his style story on our blog! https://lnkd.in/e6AdXQgC